Tampa Republic

Tampa Police, in collaboration with the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, have arrested Charles Zumbahlen, 31, on charges related to the drug overdose death of Zachary Reed. The incident occurred on November 25, 2024.

Chief Lee Bercaw stated, "This arrest should send a clear message that there is zero tolerance for this behavior in our community. The Tampa Police Department is committed to holding these individuals accountable for the harm they cause."

Officers responded to a call regarding a deceased person at the 1000 block of E 32nd Ave. Upon arrival, they found Reed deceased in his bedroom. Investigators discovered Reed's cell phone and a clear baggy containing a white powdery substance.

Through their investigation, authorities determined that Zumbahlen was the last person seen with Reed before his death. On November 26, 2024, after leaving work, Zumbahlen was stopped by another law enforcement agency and found with narcotics in his possession. He admitted to being co-workers with Reed and regularly supplying him with narcotics.

The substances found in both Zumbahlen’s possession and Reed’s bedroom were confirmed as a tranquilizer and fentanyl. The Medical Examiner’s Office identified fentanyl intoxication as the cause of Reed's death.

Zumbahlen was arrested on February 13, 2025, charged with one felony count of first-degree murder resulting from the unlawful distribution of fentanyl.